After first decade Central says business is booming

CENTRAL- Central is celebrating its tenth anniversary by announcing more growth opportunities.

City officials held a press conference on Tuesday morning announcing new economic development that plans to generate millions to the city. They said the city is booming and many residents and business owners have worked hard to make it their home, like John Sumich whose family owns the Oak Point market.

"You think about whether you would have ever imagine that so much good can happen in ten years I would tell you no," said Sumich. "It's way beyond my imagination."

Sumich and his family first moved to Central after Hurricane Katrina forced them to relocate the family and business. He said he never expected his business to be where it is now.

Sumich is just one of a number of families that plan to reinvest or expand their current businesses. Just a few days ago his family brought the whole plaza shopping center right next to their business to help bring new opportunities to the area.The mayor said local families planning to reinvest in Central is a great example of how far the city has come.

"People are coming together, they've working together when you get up in the morning and go to work it's a good day," said Mayor JR Shelton. "It's great in Central and we're open for business."

The mayor also announced a new a therapy center, Gateway Transitional, which will open in the area to help young adults with autism transition into the workforce.

Saturday marks ten years since Central became a city. City officials will host a celebration for the anniversary Saturday at the BREC Lovett Road Park from 10 a.m. until 2p.m. A free concert and fireworks display will also happen that evening at Central High.